One of the biggest benefits of going solar is that it’s a “set it and forget it” way to power your home with renewable energy. However, even though solar panels require little maintenance, keeping them clean is essential to ensuring they perform at their best. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris accumulate on the surface of your panels, especially in Tucson’s desert climate, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight. At Alex's Window Cleaning, we provide professional, safe, and effective solar panel cleaning services to help you get the most out of your solar investment.
We use eco-friendly products and gentle cleaning methods that are safe for both your panels and the environment. Here’s how we ensure your solar panels stay in top condition:
In Tucson's dry and dusty environment, we recommend cleaning your solar panels at least every six months. However, depending on factors like local weather conditions, nearby trees, or pollution levels, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. If you live near highways, factories, or airports, pollutants can build up more quickly, requiring extra maintenance. In contrast, homes in areas with regular rain may need less frequent cleaning.
Key Factors That Influence Cleaning Frequency:
Solar panels need direct sunlight to generate energy efficiently. If they're covered in dust or grime, it can block sunlight and reduce their energy output. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), energy loss from soiling can be as high as 7% per year. For Tucson homeowners, where dust storms, pollen, and desert debris are common, regular cleaning is essential to maximize the financial benefits of solar power.
Here’s why keeping your solar panels clean is important:
You may wonder if you should clean your solar panels yourself or hire a professional. While DIY cleaning is possible for ground-mounted systems, rooftop solar panels pose more challenges. You’ll need to navigate ladders and work at heights, which can be dangerous without the right equipment. Moreover, improper cleaning methods or harsh chemicals can damage your panels and void warranties.
At Alex’s Window Cleaning, we specialize in professional solar panel cleaning using the safest and most effective methods. With our experience, we ensure your panels are thoroughly cleaned without risk of damage. For Tucson homeowners, professional cleaning is often more cost-effective in the long run and much safer than DIY.
Professional cleaning is ideal for:
Rain can help rinse off some debris, but it usually isn’t enough to thoroughly clean your panels. A professional cleaning will ensure dirt, pollen, and bird droppings are fully removed.
No, using a pressure washer can damage the surface of your solar panels and reduce their efficiency. Always use soft brushes and a gentle stream of water for cleaning.
Again, I wish I could give an easy answer for this, but each solar panel system is unique and pricing will depend on the size and complexity of your system.